News Release Archive

January 20, 2004 - 6:00pm

Iowans take a high degree of pride in officially launching the presidential race through their first-in-the-nation caucuses. They can have a lot of influence on that race, according to Maureen Berner, director of state and local government programs in the political science department at the University of Northern Iowa. She said a recent simulcast between public radio stations in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, questioned if it is a good thing for Iowa to be first. As in most elections, the focus quickly switched to much larger states, such as Texas or California, or the larger 'swing' states.

She continued, 'If a large state were to be first, the campaign would be so media-driven you would lose the personal aspect, I think that would be to the detriment of politics and government in general.'

Contacts:

Maureen Berner, director of the state and local government programs, UNI Department of Political Science, (319) 273-6047, 273-2039, Maureen.Berner@uni.edu

Controversial ads running on television statewide, featuring a punching bag being beaten by a suited man, claim that lax immigration policies are putting Americans out of work. Mark Grey, director of UNI's New Iowans Program, says the ads are 'misleading and counterproductive. These advertisements

are paid for by the Coalition for the Future American Worker, a front for anti-immigration groups such as Project USA and the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR).'

The New Iowans program, along with other organizations, is urging stations to pull the ads. Grey said immigrants provide a solution to a shrinking work force. 'A lot of us have looked at demographics trends and we are concerned. Birth rates are down, and the workforce is aging rapidly. And then there's the painful reminder that 40 percent of the state's college graduates leave the state. We believe immigrants can make up for part of the shortfall.'

Contacts:

Mark Grey, director, New Iowans Program (319) 273-3029

Gwenne Culpepper, University Marketing and Public Relations, (319) 273-2761

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2004 is a leap year -- What does that mean?

Why are there 29 days in February this year? It's a 'leap year.' In 2004, we add one day, Feb. 29, to bring the calendar into line with the seasons. Thomas Hockey, UNI professor of earth science can explain the history behind leap year and what it means to your calendar.

James O'Connor, University Marketing & Public Relations, (319) 273- 2761

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What is reasonable access for disabled people?

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments that bring into question protections for the disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Plaintiffs in the case say the state of Tennessee failed to make public buildings accessible to the disabled. Defense lawyers say Congress overstepped its authority by allowing private lawsuits to enforce the law. Jane Slykhuis (pronounced slike-house), disabled services coordinator at UNI, can explain the concepts behind the Americans with Disabilities Act and how UNI approaches meeting the needs of students, faculty, staff and visitors who are disabled.

January 19, 2004 - 6:00pm

Potratz, a May 2003 computer science graduate from Janesville, won the 'Best Student Paper' award at the International ACM SIGAda 2003 Conference, held in San Diego last month. His paper, titled 'A Practical Comparison of Java to Ada in Implementing a Real-Time Embedded System,' was based on his experience in his real-time embedded systems course at UNI.

UNI Computer Science Professor John McCormick said such systems are computers that are part of other equipment such as cars, airplanes and cell phones. In Potratz's case, a model train set was used as an example. He coded the railroad control computer in dual programming languages, Ada and Java.

'Very rarely is the same project done twice using different languages,' McCormick said. 'It really brings a practical perspective to comparing programming languages for embedded systems.'

Potratz received a $500 cash prize, conference fees and hotel expenses. He is living in St. Louis, where he works as a software engineer for Boeing Co.

The hour-long presentation is free and open to the public. Director Sandra Walden, UNI instructor in music, along with theatre faculty members Mark Parrott, scenic designer; Eric Lange, lighting designer; and Amy S. RohrBerg, costume designer, will speak about their vision of the production and share the research, renderings and models they used to create the world of the play onstage.

Theatre UNI, in collaboration with the UNI School of Music, will present 'The Tender Land,' an opera in three acts, for five performances, Feb. 27 through March 6, in the Strayer-Wood Theatre. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $13 for UNI faculty, staff and senior citizens and $10 for UNI students and youth. Tickets will go on sale Feb. 2 at the Strayer-Wood Theatre box office. UNI students also can use their Panther Pass activity card to reserve a free ticket.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The history department at the University of Northern Iowa will offer a three-week study tour of Greece from June 7-June 28.

Tour leaders are Gregory Bruess, UNI associate professor of history and Isabela Varela, UNI career information specialist and certified Greek tour guide. They have more than 20 years of experience in teaching and leading tours in Greece.

The tour, titled 'Greece and Its Heritages,' is an experiential learning program open to students and the community. Participants will visit archeological sites such as the Acropolis, Delfi and Olympia; explore Byzantine castles and monasteries; tour museums and art galleries; and travel to the island of Santorini.

January 13, 2004 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's annual spring volunteer fair, offering students service opportunities within the Cedar Valley, will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 21, in the Old Central Ballroom of Maucker Union.

The event is hosted by Volunteer UNI of the UNI Career Center. More than 50 non-profit organizations are expected to attend the fair, which typically draws more than 500 students, according to Tina Heeren, a senior from Akron, and Volunteer UNI coordinator.

Non-profit organizations will provide a wide range of volunteer opportunities for students and student organizations interested in social services, educational and youth services, health promotion, arts and culture, legal and judicial services, environmental and animal services, marketing and public relations services and office services.

For a complete listing of organizations at the fair, visit www.uni.edu/careercenter or contact Libby Vanderwall, events coordinator, UNI Career Center, at (319) 273-6857.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Christopher Martin, associate professor of communications at the University of Northern, recently authored a book, 'Framed! Labor and the Corporate Media,' that decries what he refers to as a media bias against organized labor. Martin says the media -- and the large corporations behind them -- alienate audiences from unions.

'The news media submerge issues of citizenship, political activity, and class relations, in order to elevate issues of consumption and the myth of a class-free America,' said Martin. 'Focus on the frustrated fan who cannot attend games or the stranded traveler stuck in an airport locates human interest squarely on management's side.'

Based on extensive analysis of news reports on ABC, CBS, and NBC, and articles in the 'New York Times' and 'USA Today,' 'Framed! Labor and the Corporate Media' is the first book-length investigation of contemporary news media coverage of labor.

In a review, 'Publishers Weekly' (Nov. 17, 2003) called the book 'compelling first-hand (and first-rate) accounts of strikes and protests opposing the skewed manner in which they were reported by the media . . .make for fascinating reportage.'

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January 11, 2004 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa has launched the State and Local Government Program (SLGP), a program to promote state and local government as an area of study and as a career. Maureen Berner, assistant professor of political science and program director, said SLGP will link undergraduate public administration students with state and local government officials and assist practitioners in Iowa through continued education and public service.

'We already have one of the strongest undergraduate public administration programs, especially in local government, in the region,' said Berner. 'But our ultimate goal is to have the best program in the country, and we can achieve that by connecting our students to local government officials.'

She said the program will focus on placing students in local government offices for internships, sending them to conferences, allowing them to attend local government association meetings, and conducting public service projects with government offices and associations.

Berner said the SLGP will eventually provide continuing education, training, and consulting services to its alumni and Iowa government officials at little or no cost. 'The philosophy of the SLGP is one of public service,' she explained. 'We are working with city and county associations to identify their needs, and then we will use our faculty and students to meet those needs.'

The program is modeled after one at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where the School of Government trains more than 12,000 public officials each year. 'Our faculty, like most faculty realize that to improve instruction in the classroom, you have to work in that field. In terms of public administration, you have to work with local government officials on the issues they are facing.'

There is no cost involved in launching the program. 'Faculty are volunteering their time, and students are participating as part of the classroom experience,' Berner explained.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- 'IRS Small Business Tax Workshop' will be offered by the University of Northern Iowa Regional Business Center (RBC), in partnership with the Waterloo and Cedar Falls chambers of commerce.

The course will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 24, at the RBC office, 212 E. Fourth St., Waterloo, and will be instructed by accountants Kathy Frey, enrolled agent (EA), and Don Frey, certified management accountant (CMA).

Participants will learn about different forms of business ownership and their tax implications, employee taxes, record keeping, and how to prevent tax problems. A representative from the Iowa Department of Revenue and Finance also will highlight sales and local-option taxes.

The fee for Waterloo and Cedar Falls chamber members is $49 per participant. The fee for non-members is $55. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Jan. 21. For more information and to register, contact the UNI RBC at (319) 236-8123, or visit www.unirbc.org.

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January 7, 2004 - 6:00pm

The Board of Regents, State of Iowa, will meet via telephone conference call at 3 p.m, Wednesday, Jan. 14. The media and the public can audit the meeting in the Presidential Room, on the lower level of UNI's Maucker Union. Several issues pertaining to UNI will be on the docket. Specific times for discussion are unknown. The docket is available on the Web at http://www2.state.ia.us/regents/Meetings/Agendas/agenda.html

Schramm, a Washington, D.C.-based reporter, will discuss weapons of mass destruction. Schramm has worked for CNN, Fox News, 'The Washington Post' and 'The Chicago Sun Times.' Most recently he served as managing editor of the PBS series 'Avoiding Armageddon.' He is the author of five books and has received numerous journalism awards.

The event is free and open to the public.

UNI's Center for International Peace & Security Studies is housed within the Department of Political Science. It's designed to foster discussion, research and teaching about international conflicts and the meaning of security in the 21st century.

'Globalization, terrorism, war and human rights are all among the very real challenges facing the United States and the world,' said Phil Mauceri, acting head of the Department of Political Science. 'As the events of Sept. 11, 2001, demonstrated, international conflicts in distant lands can have a devastating impact in the United States. Still, polls continue to find that Americans have little interest in foreign affairs, and have limited knowledge of the conflicts raging across the globe. The prevention and peaceful resolution of conflicts receives far too little attention in public forums.'

Student Pugwash USA is an educational nonprofit organization whose mission is the promotion of socially responsible application of science and technology in the 21st century.

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December 29, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The UNI Regional Business Center (RBC) will offer a variety of trainings in the areas of small business skill development, hands-on computer software and regulatory workshops for owners, managers and personnel. Classes begin in mid-January and are open to the public.

In January, the RBC will offer 'QuickBooks Pro for Beginners' in partnership with Gary Karr, Waterloo Certified Public Accountant. Also on the schedule is a new marketing seminar, 'Rapid Result Branding,' to be delivered by Brand Advocates of Johnston; the 'IRS Small Business Tax Workshop' in partnership with the Waterloo and Cedar Falls chambers of commerce; and 'Introductory Bookkeeping for Iowa's Small Business.'

In February, the RBC is introducing a new series of organizational management workshops, including 'Task and Time Management' and 'Taming the Paper Tiger at Work,' taught by Kris Pond-Burtis, owner of Krisalis Inc. The RBC also will offer 'QuickBooks Pro -- Advanced' and 'Introductory Bookkeeping for Iowa's Small Business' in February.

The RBC is partnering with Ketels Contract Training to offer a full line of hands-on Microsoft software classes in March and April. Chris McGregor-Case will teach PowerPoint, Excel, Access and Outlook.

For detailed information on all classes at the RBC, call (319) 236-8123 or visit www.unirbc.org. Other classes will become available throughout the spring. All classes will be at the RBC, 212 E. Fourth St., Waterloo. Class sizes are limited. Fees vary.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- 'Quick Books Pro -- Beginning,' a software training course, will be offered by the University of Northern Iowa Regional Business Center (RBC).

The course will run three Mondays, from 6 to 9 p.m., beginning Jan. 12, and continuing Jan. 26 and Feb. 2, at the RBC office, 212 E. Fourth St., Waterloo. The instructor will be Judy Schindel, certified Quick Books trainer.

Participants will learn check entry, how to set up accounts and other lists, deposits, bank reconciliation, how to enter and pay bills, reports and more.

These sessions are aimed specifically at beginners to the Quick Books Pro software series and those needing a refresher course. An advanced level of 'Quick Books Pro' will be offered at a later date.

Cost is $169. The registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 9. For more information and to register, contact the UNI RBC at (319) 236-8123, or visit www.unirbc.org.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- 'Rapid Result Branding,' a marketing seminar to help improve advertising effectiveness, will be offered by the University of Northern Iowa Regional Business Center (RBC), Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2004.

The course will take place from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at the RBC office, 212 E. Fourth St., Waterloo, and will be lead by Lee Fergesen, chief advocate for Brand Advocates of Johnston, Iowa.

Participants will learn how to make advertising more productive while cutting costs and how to differentiate their business from the competition.

Cost is $40. The registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 9. For more information and to register, contact the UNI RBC at (319) 236-8123, or visit www.unirbc.org.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Gallery of Art will present 'Convention and Invention: An Exhibition of Publication Design,' from Monday, Jan.12 through Sunday, Feb. 8. It will feature the traveling exhibition '50 Books/50 Covers.' The exhibition is organized by the American Institute for Graphic Arts, the oldest and largest professional organization serving graphic designers.

Two lectures will take place in association with the exhibition. The first, by international book artist and photographer, Douglas Holleley, will be at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20, in the Kamerick Art Building auditorium, Room 111. An opening reception will follow the lecture. The second lecture, at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, will be given by printmaker, papercutter and book artist Nikki McClure, also in KAB Room111.

In addition to the two speakers, a third artist, Walter Hamady, is highlighted in the exhibition. He is a printmaker, papermaker, poet, and founder of Perishable Press Limited of Mt. Horeb, Wis.

'This selection is considered the best of both book and cover designs of the past year,' said Darrell Taylor, director of the UNI Gallery of Art. He said it was juried by a prestigious panel of design professionals.

The exhibition is sponsored in part by Twin Oaks Print/Frame. Lectures are sponsored in part by the Martha Ellen Tye Visiting Artist/Scholar Series. The UNI Gallery of Art also was assisted by the Hearst Center for the Arts, and Special Collections of UNI's Rod Library.

The exhibition, reception and lectures are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. The gallery is located at the corner of Hudson Road and West 27th Street, on the main floor of the Kamerick Art Building. For more information, call (319) 273-3095 or visit http://www.uni.edu/artdept/gallery/.

Their presentation, 'The Benefits of Ethnic Student Recruitment Organizations,' focused on the recruitment and retention of students of color on predominantly white campuses.

__(Name)__ of __(Hometown)__, a (classification) studying (major) at the University of Northern Iowa, was one of seven Ethnic Student Promoters, accompanied by advisor, Ron Green, UNI admissions counselor, who represented UNI.

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For a complete list of students, contact the Office of University Marketing & Public Relations at 319-273-2761.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Sue Joslyn, a professor in the University of Northern Iowa School of Health, Physical Education and Leisure Services, has been named the university's most recent Distinguished Scholar.

Joslyn serves as chair of the division of Health Promotion and Education. She holds a doctorate in epidemiology from the University of Iowa, a master's in health education from UNI, and a B.A. in economics, also from UNI. Joslyn has earned a national reputation for her research in breast and bladder cancer, and recently published groundbreaking work in the area of lymphadenectomy in the 'Journal of Urology.' She is regularly called upon by federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health as a reviewer of large-scale cancer research projects for the United States.

Among her many awards and citations are the Department of the Army's Commander's Award for Public Service, the Regents' Award for Faculty Excellence, and the American Cancer Society's Cancer Control Volunteer of the Year Award.

Joslyn came to UNI in 1990 as an instructor. She was promoted to assistant professor in 1991, to associate professor in 1996, and to full professor in 2000.

Distinguished Scholars are senior scholars and artists who are nominated for the award by graduate faculty in their respective departments. The award provides a $500 research budget.

David Walker, associate dean of the UNI Graduate College, is chair of the award committee.

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December 21, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa's Art and Architecture Committee has chosen new artwork for the recent renovation of Maucker Union. Iowa law states that one-half of 1 percent of the total estimated cost of state buildings shall be used to purchase art. The amount spent for this piece of art was $65,000.

According to Mary Frisbee Johnson, chair of the committee, the new piece is a 120-foot bas-relief sculpture that runs along the inside top of the colonnade at the entrance to the Center for Multicultural Education, which is now attached to the Union, and is titled 'We Are One.' Designed by Ed McGowin and Claudia DeMonte of New York, the piece depicts stylized figures helping one another with their burdens. The figures' efforts are symbolized by objects representing goals and obstacles faced by human beings. The artists will attend the center's grand opening during the spring semester.

The Art and Architecture Committee is administered by Thomas Schellhardt, vice president for administration and finance. Student members are Angela Pease, a senior from Cedar Falls, and Laura Riskedahl, a senior from Marshalltown. Also serving are Mike Bobeldyk, Maucker Union program coordinator; Reginald Green, director of academic advising; Frisbee Johnson; Morris Mikkelsen, director of facilities planning; Julie Pontasch, director of development for the College of Education; and Darrell Taylor, director of the UNI Gallery of Art. Brad Leeper, an architect with InVision Architecture of Waterloo, worked with the committee and the artists.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa --The University of Northern Iowa's Rod Library has named its December 'Student Assistant of the Month.' Hayley Harman, a senior with a double major in finance and accounting, from Washington, is a student assistant in the Rod Library Reference and Instructional Services Department.

The library staff nominated Harman for her professionalism and reliability. According to her nominators, she 'treats all patrons in a friendly and helpful manner.'

A native of St. Ansgar, Hackenmiller holds a B.F.A. from UNI and an M.A. in visual arts management from Columbia College in Chicago. Before coming to UNI, she was director of the Schopf Gallery on the Lake in Chicago. Previous to that, she was a marketing assistant at the Judith Racht Gallery in Harbert, Mich.

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December 18, 2003 - 6:00pm

University of Northern Iowa President Robert Koob will preside over commencement ceremonies at 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 20 in the UNI-Dome. He will confer degrees upon some 700 students graduating from UNI's five undergraduate colleges, the Graduate College, or Continuing Education and Special Programs. Aaron M. Podolefsky, provost and vice president for academic affairs, will conduct the recognition of honors and awards.

The student address will be delivered by Suzanne Marie Just from Swaledale, candidate for a master of arts degree in communication studies. Beth Harris of Cedar Falls, chair of the UNI Alumni Association Board of Directors, will welcome new graduates on behalf of the association. Music will be provided by the University Brass Ensemble.

Two students in the U.S. Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program at the University of Northern Iowa will be commissioned as second lieutenants during an 8:30 a.m. ceremony Saturday, Dec. 20, in the Lang Hall Auditorium.

Brig. Gen. Jodi S. Tymeson, assistant adjutant general, Iowa Army National Guard, and a 1988 UNI graduate, will be the commissioning ceremony speakers. Tymeson is the first woman to be named to that office.

Military science graduates being commissioned are:

Jeana Rang of Dubuque, will enter the Army Reserve, Quartermaster Branch. She received her bachelor of science in nursing degree from Allen College, as part of UNI's cooperative nursing program with that school. Rang will receive her first salute from her brother, James, who is home on leave from Baghdad, where he is serving with the Iowa Army National Guard's1555 Quartermaster Company from Dubuque.

Richard Brian Gienau of Waterloo, will enter the Iowa National Guard, Engineer Branch. He will receiver a bachelor of arts degree in management information systems from UNI later in the morning.

Contacts:

Lt. Col. Robert Stavnes, head, UNI Department of Military Science,

Vicki Grimes, University Marketing & Public Relations, (319) 273-2761

December 16, 2003 - 6:00pm

The University of Northern Iowa College of Education recently hosted its bi-annual Teacher Education Convocation. Of the 347 students that have satisfied requirements for admission into the College of Education, more than 200 students participated in the formal ceremony, the official induction of students into that field of study.

Of those recently accepted into the College of Education was (Name) from (Hometown) .

Kathy Oakland, chair of the convocation committee, says, 'One of the most rewarding aspects of this event is looking out into the audience and seeing the pride on the faces of parents and grandparents. It is an especially moving ceremony that celebrates not only the College of Education, but the accomplishments of the entire university.'

Susan Etscheidt, associate professor of special education, was the keynote speaker for the 26th group of candidates inducted into the Teacher Education program since formal ceremonies began in 1991.

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To get a listing of the students who participated, contact the office of University Marketing & Public Relations at (319) 273-2761.

December 15, 2003 - 6:00pm

Four University of Northern Iowa faculty members received the 2003 Regents Award for Faculty Excellence at a dinner hosted earlier this semester by the Board of Regents, State of Iowa.

Recipients were Rebecca Burkhardt, professor of music and director of orchestral activities; Steve Corbin, associate professor of marketing; Mark Grey, professor of anthropology and director of UNI's New Iowans Program; and Siobahn Morgan, professor of astronomy.

Burkhardt was described by her nominator as an 'exceptional teacher in the School of Music' and one whose 'students prize the breadth and depth of her expertise, as well as her impeccable organization and inspiring manner.' Her conducting style 'invites people to play, and under her direction, the orchestra at UNI has grown in both numbers and maturity to become one of the very best collegiate ensembles in the Midwest.'

Burkhardt, has a Ph.D. in music theory from the University of Texas at Austin and has been at UNI since 1988.

Corbin is described as a master teacher who annually is rated by graduating seniors as one of the professors who has had the most impact on their development. Students consistently express their admiration and appreciation for his knowledge and expertise, his stimulating classroom and his personal interest in every student's success. He has created an extensive outreach program that provides hundreds of students with hands-on marketing experience in local businesses.

In addition to his classroom success, Corbin conducts research focusing on marketing pedagogy, and his research on student writing in the marketing curriculum is considered seminal throughout the marketing discipline. He has served as a national conference leader on issues related to pedagogical research in his field.

Corbin earned an Ed.D. in marketing education from the Polytechnic Institute and State University of Virginia, and came to UNI in 1975. He served nine years as head of the marketing department. An advocate for student-athletes, he is the announcer and commentator for the UNI women's basketball team.

Grey, who earned his Ph.D. in applied anthropology from the University of Colorado, is in his 13th year at UNI. He has developed a national reputation for his research on the integration of immigrants and refugees into Iowa communities and the Iowa workforce. As director of the New Iowans program, he has provided leadership for communities across Iowa that are experiencing rapid diversification, helping to foster multicultural understanding and to improve the quality of community life for longtime residents and for new Iowans.

His handbooks have been highly acclaimed for their practical value. In presenting him to the regents, UNI President Robert Koob said, 'From helping a group of Latinos start a multi-ethnic radio station Postville, to taking Iowa mayors, police chiefs and business leaders on trips to the Mexican home communities of Iowa immigrants, Dr. Grey's work has been a model of applying theory to practice in ways that make a positive difference for individuals and for our state.'

Morgan came to UNI in 1991 after earning a Ph.D. in astronomy at the University of Washington. In addition to teaching, she is the director of the Hillside Observatory and faculty advisor for Sigma Gamma Epsilon, the National Honor Society for Earth Science. During her tenure at UNI she has developed a reputation not only as a highly skilled teacher, but also as a researcher and active member of the university community.

She regularly teaches a popular astronomy course. Her nominator says, 'Students prize her interactive laboratories and innovative teaching technique. They describe her as knowledgeable, approachable, patient, challenging, enthusiastic, thoughtful, creative, passionate and 'down-to-earth -- except when she is in the stars.''

Morgan's dedication to her students is evident in her research. A nationally recognized expert on pulsars (rapidly rotating neutron stars), she regularly involves undergraduates in her research and has co-authored 13 academic papers with students, including four in the prestigious astronomy journal, Acta Astronomica.

The University of Northern Iowa's Master's in Social Work program has received accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education to October 2007. The accreditation is retroactive to the program's first graduating class in 2002. Only individuals graduating from an accredited program are allowed licensing and permission to practice.

In 1999, the Board of Regents, State of Iowa, granted UNI permission to begin offering the program in fall 2000. Tom Keefe, director of the program, said the catalyst for developing UNI's MSW program was two-fold. First, the Bureau of Labor predicted that the need for social workers would increase. Second, the University of Iowa was, at that time, the only public institution in the state offering the MSW. St. Ambrose University in Davenport also offers a program.

'Many people who wanted this degree had to leave the state to get it,' explained Keefe, 'Many who leave the state never return to Iowa to work. We know that many employers are having to turn to people without MSW degrees to do MSW work. Having this program at UNI fills a very serious need, especially in this region of the state.'

Based on the university's feasibility study, the MSW program offers concentrations in two areas not offered elsewhere in Iowa: administrative practice, and advanced micropractice. To date, 56 people have graduated from the MSW program. According to Keefe, this makes it one of the larger graduate programs at the university.

'Social workers address all kinds of problems, including spouse abuse, child abuse and substance abuse,' Keefe explained. 'We know that when the country experiences periods of high unemployment, some of those problems expand, and that is what we are seeing now.'

For more information about the MSW program at UNI, contact Keefe at (319) 273-5910.

Four University of Northern Iowa International Club of Business members will travel to Winnipeg, Canada, Jan. 8-11, 2004, to compete in the final stage of the Manitoba International Marketing Competition (MIMC).

This is the second year UNI has sent a team to MIMC. Twenty teams are invited to participate from Canada, Europe, Mexico and the United States. Teams compete by making marketing and production decisions in three distinct phases. The first is an eight-week simulation where the teams make decisions online, the second is a written strategy statement that covers target market analysis, competitive analysis and their strategic approach. The final phase occurs in Winnipeg and students present their work of the previous months to a panel of judges from business and academia.

According to Chris Schrage, UNI instructor in management and marketing, and adviser to the International Club of Business Students, the team has started the competition strong with excellent results from the first set of decisions. There is a wide range of experience and major emphasis on the team, so she says there is considerable balance in their viewpoints.

Among UNI students participating are: Elizabeth Rowan, a senior management and business administration major from Preston; Alissa Traughber, a senior textiles and apparel: marketing and sales and advertising major from Okoboji; Laura Hahn, a junior management major from Charlotte; and Amy Schmitt, a senior marketing major from Maynard.

This is the 22nd year of the MIMC competition, hosted by Asper School of Business at the University of Manitoba. For more information, contact Schrage, at (319) 273-2126.

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December 14, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Teachers in Iowa can earn one hour of graduate credit and learn more about waste reduction by registering for 'Waste Reduction: Addressing the Overlooked 'R',' presented by University of Northern Iowa's Center for Energy & Environmental Education (CEEE). The workshop will take place in Grinnell on Friday, Jan. 23, 2004, Saturday, Jan. 24 and Saturday, April 17.

The workshop is open to all teachers, but specifically targeted to middle school teachers. The cost is $50 per teacher. Space is limited on a first-come, first-served basis. Some free registrations will be available.

Participants will receive classroom-ready lesson ideas; free resources that directly apply to cross-curricular and thematic units (valued at more than $75); a bibliography of content-area resources; and one hour of graduate credit.

According to Susan Salterberg, workshop instructor, much attention is paid to recycling, but reduction and reuse of materials often are overlooked, yet they are Iowa's highest priorities for waste management. The workshop will give teachers tools and knowledge so that they can teach these waste management strategies.

'Waste Reduction: Addressing the Overlooked R' is funded in part with grants from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources' REAP Conservation Education Program and Solid Waste Alternatives Program, along with support from selected solid waste agencies.

A registration form is available at www.iowaee.org. For more information about the course or registration, contact Salterberg at (319) 498-4516, (319) 273-2573 or salterberg@uni.edu.

December 11, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Competition was intense on the University of Northern Iowa campus last month as high school seniors competed for numerous scholarships in the sciences, industrial technology, mathematics or computer science. Scholarships included four-year full-tuition scholarships valued at $2,458 for the 2003-2004 school year.

(Student's name), a student at (High school), participated in the UNI 2003 Science, Mathematics and Technology Symposium. (He/She) was awarded (award status) in (field of study).

Besides competing for awards, students attending the Symposium were introduced to educational opportunities on campus through lecturers, special programs and open houses in designated

departments.

Note: to obtain a list of the students, please contact the Office of Marketing and Public Relations at 319-273-2761.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) continued its legacy of receiving national recognition at the national PRSSA conference, held recently in New Orleans.

UNI PRSSA was selected to host a regional conference next spring, and received the Pacesetter Award for leadership, enthusiasm, spirit and involvement. Additionally, for the first time in the history of the UNI PRSSA chapter, Joanne Wzontek, development and public relations director for UNI's Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center, received the outstanding professional adviser award.

The UNI PRSSA chapter was chartered in 1981, and currently has 70 members. The chapter adviser is Gayle Pohl, associate professor of communication studies.

Among the members on the executive board is (Name), a (Classification, Major), from (Hometown), serving as the (Position).

The UNI PRSSA has an active student-run public relations firm, PRide (Public Relations Internships Develop Expertise). The firm actively participates in campus and community events, and gives students a wide variety of professional experiences.

Note: to obtain a list of the students, please contact the Office of Marketing and Public Relations at 319-273-2761.

December 10, 2003 - 6:00pm

The Board of Regents, State of Iowa, will meet Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 15 and 16 at Iowa State University in Ames. Several issues pertaining to UNI will be on the docket. These items are scheduled to be discussed on Tuesday. Specific times are unknown. Not all sources will be present at the Board of Regents meeting. The docket is available on the Web at http://www2.state.ia.us/regents/Meetings/Agendas/agenda.html

1. Requests for professional development assignments

These are requests from faculty for professional development opportunities. The university considers professional development of faculty crucial to its mission of providing a valuable experience to students.

A limited number of UNI faculty may apply for professional development assignments (PDAs) -- paid alternative work assignments. If approved, faculty are relieved of teaching responsibilities for a period of time, normally a semester, in order to shift emphasis to a specific research, service, or performance effort. As in all businesses, professional development helps employees gain perspective, knowledge and skills that improve their performance.

Adding and removing academic programs is an ongoing process. In this case, we are phasing out a program that has consistently low enrollment. There are three students enrolled in the program. The first step in phasing out the program is to suspend admissions.

This is an annual report about what actions the university has taken to address results of the 2001 state fire marshal's inspection, and information on programs to correct deficiencies that have been identified in this area.

-UNI was recognized in 2000 and 2001 by the Iowa-Illinois Safety Council for 'outstanding acheivement for accident prevention.'

Contacts:

Dean Shoars, director of the physical plant, (319) 273-2582

Cindy Houlson, safety manager, (319) 273-5855

6. Annual report on deferred maintenance

Because of the budget reversion this year, the university is reducing its maintenance budget by $100,000. As UNI is forced to defer much-needed maintenance, problems grow worse. Repairs that go unattended simply become larger, requiring even more funding to correct the problems.

Contact: Doug Jensen, assistant to the vice president for administration and finance, (319) 273-2383.

7. Technology transfer and economic development report

This annual report summarizes the outcomes of UNI Business & Community Service (BCS) outreach programs. We strive to help Iowans build our economy -- locally and statewide. UNI's outreach programs create opportunities for students and faculty to actively participate in business and community development projects. UNI outreach programs have collectively served more than 4,000 business and 465 communities in all 99 counties.

The Technology Transfer and Economic Development report is required by Iowa code. The Board of Regents, State of Iowa, approves the report before it goes to the Legislature.

Randy Pilkington will highlight UNI's economic development activities and explain how they enchance the economic growth of Iowa. He will provide examples of collaborative economic development projects that BCS has with state agencies, regent institutions and community colleges. He also will give specific examples of BCS initiatives that are enhancing the Iowa economy.

Notes: State funding for BCS has dwindled during the past few years. Even though BCS has experienced substantial success in businesses served and jobs created, there have been some unfortunate consequences of the state funding cuts. For example, the Institute for Decision Making has

moved to a fee-based program, which has had a negative impact on Iowa's smaller communities. These communities are typically not able to afford the services they so desperately need. Two other programs significantly impacted by the cuts are the Metal Casting Center and Ag-based Industrial Lubricants.

Pilkington emphasizes that UNI focuses on providing hands-on technical assistance to Iowa businesses and communities in UNI's areas of academic expertise. UNI's programs add value to state economic development programs and the research activities of the University of Iowa and Iowa State University. UNI is not as active in patent disclosure and commercialization as its sister institutions.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Dance Team has qualified for the Universal Dance Association College National Competition.

The team will make its fifth appearance in the annual competition Jan. 16-19 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. UNI received an automatic bid into the semi-final round and will compete in the Division I Dance category against 21of the top teams in the nation.

UNI dance team members include ___NAME___, a ___CLASSIFICATION/MAJOR___ from ____HOMETOWN____.

Competing teams must submit a videotape of a two-minute routine to qualify for and be accepted into the elite competition. UNI Dance Team members choreographed their own routine, a unique quality among teams competing. In addition, the team raised funds for costumes, registration fees, hotel accommodations and airfare. The UNI Dance Team is coached by Jori Wade-Booth.

Note: to obtain a list of the students, please contact the Office of Marketing and Public Relations 319-273-2761.

'The Streets are Burning,' is the story of the 1968 citywide riots that occurred when the Chicago Police met student Vietnam War protesters. Eight men were arrested and charged with planning and inciting the demonstrations. The production revisits the trial of such revolutionaries as Abbie Hoffman, Bobby Seale and Rennie Davis.

Name a classification , major major from Hometown , was a member of the cast.

UNI graduate Emily Josephson from Shenandoah, now a second-year graduate student in communication studies, wrote and directed the performance.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Rascal Flatts, the Country Music Association's (CMA) Group of the Year, will be in concert at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, in the UNI-Dome. Opening for the group is Chris Cagle.

Rascal Flatts, a country trio, was nominated for last year's CMA Group of the Year Award, and received the CMA Horizon Award. The group's first CD, 'Prayin' for Daylight,' went platinum and spawned four top-10 hits including 'I'm Moving On.' Only two other country groups in the past five years have had a debut CD go platinum: the Dixie Chicks and SheDaisy.

The group also has had two CMT No. 1 videos. Their 'Walk the Llama Llama,' penned by Sting, was featured on 'The Emperor's New Groove' soundtrack. 'Melt,' the group's sophomore CD, is now available in stores.

Tickets for the concert are $33.75 and $25.75, and are available beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the UNI-Dome box office, (319) 273-DOME; all Ticketmaster locations, (515) 243-5505; and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.cc.com. Ticketmaster service charges are not included in the ticket price.

The event is presented by Coors Light and Clear Channel Entertainment.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Foundation has raised $18 million in private support needed to build the McLeod Center. The100,000-square-foot sports and entertainment facility will be located south of the UNI-Dome on the UNI campus.

'This is a major fundraising milestone,' explained Bill Calhoun, UNI vice president for university advancement. 'This gives us the funds we need to build the basic facility. Fundraising will continue, which will allow us to include a food preparation area, special rigging for concert light and sound systems, and retractable seating. In addition, we hope to include a finished alumni suite and hall of fame. Those are the things that will help make the McLeod Center a versatile facility that will help make us very competitive for high-level sporting and entertainment events.'

The Board of Regents, State of Iowa, gave UNI approval to move ahead with construction of the McLeod Center in November. Construction should begin next summer.

The McLeod Center will be the home of Panther basketball and volleyball, and a competition site for wrestling. In addition, it will host numerous community events including concerts, trade and craft shows and youth activities ranging from state and national tournaments. It will have seating for about 6,100 and a total capacity of 7,000.

UNI's Institute for Decision Making, and C.H. Johnson Consulting Inc., an independent consulting firm, estimate the combination of the McLeod Center and the UNI-Dome will bring 370,000 more visitors to the Cedar Valley each year, with an economic impact of more than $15 million after three to five years of operation.

Herbert Lewis Kruse Blunck, a Des Moines architectural firm, has been hired to design the facility. This nationally known firm received the American Institute of Architect's 2001 Architecture Firm Award, the institute's highest honor for design practice. Herbert Lewis Kruse Blunck also designed UNI's Rod Library fourth-floor addition, completed in 1995; and Residence on the Hill, completed in 1994. They will partner with Crawford Architects of Kansas City for this latest UNI project.

Construction of the McLeod Center is part of the $100 million 'Students First' campaign to support scholarships, academic program support and facilities. Other capital projects include McElroy Hall in Waterloo, which houses the Freeburg Early Childhood Program; renovation of Russell Hall; and equipment for McCollum Science Hall and Lang Hall.

This is the second time the UNI mascot has qualified for the annual competition. It will be the first appearance for this year's T.C., performed by UNI junior, Brant Haywood from Eldora. He is ranked fourth in the nation among mascots.

Haywood is one of four mascots to receive an automatic paid bid into the final round of the competition. The paid bid covers all of T.C.'s registration, hotel and airfare costs.

In order to qualify, participants must submit a two-minute highlight tape of games, community events and appearances made over the past year. To compete at the event, Haywood must prepare a one-and-a-half minute routine as T.C. incorporating a theme, props, music and crowd participation.

T.C. is member of the UNI Spirit Squad and can be seen at football, basketball and volleyball events, and other university and community events. For more information on T.C., visit the UNI Spirit Squad Web site at www.unipanthers.com/spirit.

SPECIAL NOTICE: Due to finals week Dec. 15-19, and semester break, the weekly Monday edition of 'News Briefs' will be on hiatus. The next issue will appear Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2004. As always, if you need a source for a specific story you are pursuing, please call our office at (319) 273-2761.

Metric system to pass another anniversary-- still largely ignored

Dec. 23 will mark another anniversary for the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 that called for voluntary conversion to the metric system as the standard of measure in the United States. Though never repealed, the act has been largely ignored. But this is not the first time the metric system received a federal endorsement. The U.S. Congress authorized the metric system as the legal system of measurement in the United States by an act passed July 28, 1866. And, in 1875, the United States became one of the original signers of the Treaty of the Metre, which established an international metric system.

With these various acts on the books, why is it that we still have not adopted this standard throughout the nation? Catherine Miller, associate professor of mathematics at the University of Northern Iowa, says textbook companies made changes in their books in the mid-'70s, but by the early '80s, most teachers had given up on the change. 'There seemed to be a general rejection of the idea,' she says. 'Change is very hard for people in society, especially when asked to discontinue something they know so well.'

'Books make wonderful gifts for children of all ages,' says Lucille Lettow, youth collections librarian at the University of Northern Iowa's Rod Library. Lettow offers book suggestions for preschool children, as well as young, middle grade and older readers. She says two new titles about Iowa should not be missed -- Patricia Pierce's 'H is for Hawkeye: An Iowa Alphabet,' a state alphabet book, and 'Christmas on the Farm' by Hampton native Bob Artley, who describes what it was like celebrating the Christmas season on an Iowa farm in the 1930s and 1940s. Lettow says both books can be enjoyed by all ages.

Among her preschool suggestions is a book written by Bill Martin, Jr., and illustrated by Caldecott-winning author/artist Eric Carle, that features endangered animals, and a new 'Mother Goose' featuring 60 nursery rhymes and illustrations by the great-grandson of well-known artist Grandma Moses. She suggests young readers might enjoy finding a hidden alphabet, learning how a young boy becomes a pirate or an almanac of amazing American women where each page features a letter of the alphabet. Her suggestions for middle-grade readers include cultural heritage, a story set in the South, one set on the Oklahoma frontier of 1893, and a puzzle book. More novels published for older children this year, Lettow says, have an international scope, and she recommends 'Colibri,' set in Guatemala. She also recommends several books of historical fiction, including 'Or Give Me Death,' based on the story of Patrick Henry's family, and a biography of Ben Franklin.

December 4, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- 'Prairie Celebration,' the original watercolor commissioned to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the UNI Botanical Preserves Founders ceremony and celebration is available for purchase.

According to Billie Hemmer-Callahan, horticulturist with the UNI Biology Botanical Center and Preserves, artist Megan Thorne, a UNI graduate from Traer, 'has perfectly captured the poetic beauty of the UNI prairie in all its splendor and perfection.'

Prints are available for purchase now through Dec. 19. The cost of an 8- by 10-inch print is $10. Prints may be ordered by calling the Botanical Center office at (319) 273-2247. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. To view the print visit http://www.bio.uni.edu/botanicalcenter/GiftShop.html.

'The Best of Broadway,' an evening of song and dance, is a revue of Broadway show tunes. The performance will include songs from 'Cabaret,' 'Cats,' 'Oklahoma,' 'My Fair Lady,' 'Chicago,' 'Hair Spray,' 'Annie,' 'Rent,' 'The Wiz' and 'Jekyll and Hyde.'

Cost of admission is $4. For more information contact the Strayer-Wood Theatre box office at (319) 273-6381.

December 3, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Student Government (NISG) President and Speaker of the Senate recently selected, and the senate approved, several students to fill vacancies on the NISG Supreme Court. The Supreme Court consists of a chief justice and four associate justices.

Each of the following individuals was selected to be an associate justice on the court; Bridget Gongol, daughter of Mary and Verne Gongol, a freshman history major from West Des Moines; Anthony Boggs, son of Marilyn and Alva Boggs, a junior social science teaching major from Seymour; and Joseph Anderson, son of Daun Keefe and Keith Anderson, a junior communications major from Toledo.

The new justices joined associate justice John Harrenstein, a junior organizational communication major from Clear Lake, and chief justice Jacob McCoy, a senior actuarial science major from Des Moines.

The court's purpose is to review the actions of the other two branches of NISG and serve as the primary body for arbitration among student organizations recognized by the Senate. Four justices and a chief justice serve on the court for the duration of their enrollment at UNI.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- University of Northern Iowa student, Allyson Moore, a senior public relations major and journalism minor from Champlin, Minn., formerly from Urbandale, recently won the student writing competition at the 2003 Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Career Day in Kansas City.

The writing contest included a news release, strategy for targeting media outlets, and event planning. Moore was awarded first place and $300 for herself and $300 for the UNI PRSSA chapter.

The day was sponsored by the Greater Kansas City chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), and was designed to help students prepare for upcoming job searches, provide networking and offer tips on resumes and interviewing.

Moore, a 1999 graduate of West Des Moines Valley High School, will graduate from UNI Dec. 20. She is the daughter of Michael and Patricia Moore, now of Champlin. She has had undergraduate internships at Generations Incorporated in Des Moines, North American Review in Cedar Falls, Hanser & Associates Public Relations in Des Moines, Padilla Speer Beardsley Public Relations in Minneapolis, and UNI's Office of University Marketing & Public Relations.

'The Streets are Burning,' is the story of the 1968 citywide riots that occurred when the Chicago Police met student protesters of the Vietnam War with violence. Eight men were arrested and charged with planning and inciting the demonstrations that occurred. The production revisits the trial of such revolutionaries as Abbie Hoffman, Bobby Seale and Rennie Davis, as they fought for their rights, and those of the American people.

UNI graduate Emily Josephson from Shenandoah, now a second year graduate student in communication studies, has adapted and written this performance from the original trial transcript of the 1968 Chicago conspiracy trial as a portion of her master's thesis. This will be the second production Josephson has written and directed for the UNI Interpreters Theatre.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- 'U.S. Policy in Colombia' will be the subject of a 7 p.m. lecture Monday, Dec. 8, in the Communication Arts Center, Room 108, at the University of Northern Iowa.

The presentation, by Lisa Haugaard, executive director of the Latin America Working Group (LAWG), is free and open to the public.

Haugaard has been with the LAWG since 1993, and became its executive director in June 2002. With the LAWG she has worked on Colombian and Central American policy, development assistance and other topics. She has testified before the U.S. Congress and produced numerous reports and articles on U.S.-Latin American policy.

Prior to her work at the LAWG, Haugaard was executive director of the Central America Historical Institute in Washington, D.C.; writer, editor and translator for the Jesuit Instituto Historico Centroamericano in Managua, Nicaragua; and editor for major US book publishers.

She holds a bachelor's degree from Swarthmore College, a master's degree in Latin American studies from New York University and was a Fulbright scholar in Central America.

The Latin America Working Group is one of the nation's longest standing coalitions dedicated to foreign policy. As a coalition, LAWG represents the interests of over 60 major religious, humanitarian, grassroots and policy organizations to decision makers in Washington.

For more information contact John Grinstead, UNI assistant professor of modern languages, at (319) 273-2417.

December 2, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Two University of Northern Iowa students were recognized at this year's International Conference of Outdoor Recreation and Education (ICORE).

Jeremiah Gray, a senior leisure services major from Denison, was one of eight individuals awarded an ICORE scholarship. Gray also was elected national student representative for the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE).

Luke Bartlett, a graduate student in leisure services management from Cedar Falls, was the recipient of the Bill March Student Achievement Award. Bartlett was the only student selected for this honor, which recognizes the nation's outstanding student leader.

The 2004 ICORE planning committee includes Gray, Bartlett; and Andy Martin, UNI Wellness and Recreation Services outdoors coordinator. The conference will take place in Tennessee.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Ten University of Northern Iowa ROTC students recently completed the annual Ranger Challenge at Ft. McCoy in Wisconsin. The challenge is designed to test the best cadets in the nation physically and mentally.

Day one of the three-day competition, Oct. 17 ï¾– 19, consisted of a written exam while days two and three consisted of physical events.

UNI took one team to this year's Ranger Challenge and competed against 13 schools and 20 teams. The team placed sixth in the Army physical fitness test, eighth in the M16A2 basic rifle marksmanship, 11th in orienteering and 12th in the 10-kilometer road march. Overall, the UNI team placed 13th.

Note: to obtain a list of the students, please contact the Office of Marketing and Public Relations at 319-273-2761.

December 1, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa is featuring Joyce Boike, a sophomore math education major from Dike, as part of the new UNI marketing campaign. Part of a rotating group of student, faculty, staff and alumni profiles, hers can be found on the Web at www.uni.edu.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- Thirteen students recently were inducted into the University of Northern Iowa's Gamma Phi chapter of the National Order of Omega Greek honor society. Order of Omega recognizes fraternity and sorority members for outstanding dedication to the university and the Greek community, leadership and academic skills. Members must have a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher.

Among the 13 inductees was (NAME), a (CLASSIFICATION), (MAJOR) major from (HOMETOWN).

Note: to obtain a list of the students, please contact the Office of Marketing and Public Relations at 319-273-2761.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa Gallery of Art will present 'BFA Exhibition,' from Saturday, Dec.13 through Saturday, Dec. 20. Graduating artists will host a reception on Dec. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m.

The following four artists are participating in this exhibition in partial fulfillment of their bachelor of fine arts (B.F.A.) degrees: Angela Foster of Adel, Trevor Hanel of Burlington, Angela Pease of Cedar Falls, and Justin Richert of Anita and Atlantic.

Angela Foster is a double major in art education and in graphic design. Her exhibition will highlight the use of typography and page layout in the design of brochures and booklets. Trevor Hanel is a painting major whose series 'From Here To There' represents a spiritual journey composed of isolated and contemplative 'scapes. After receiving his B.F.A. at UNI, he plans to continue his studies in Hungary.

Angela Pease's exhibition will consist of one large-scale installation as well as smaller pieces made from largely synthetic materials, all of which question modern perceptions of the house and home. She says one of her major career influences was six weeks spent at the Yale/Norfolk Summer School of Art. Justin Richert is a ceramics major who came to UNI as a scholarship student in the fall of 1999. His work references historical pottery forms integrated with his personal interests in process, form, texture and the responsive nature of clay.

The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday; and noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. The gallery is located at the corner of Hudson Road and West 27th Street, on the main floor of the Kamerick Art Building. For more information, call (319) 273-3095 or visit www.uni.edu/artdept/gallery/.

November 30, 2003 - 6:00pm

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa is featuring local twins Amy and Andrea Beckman as part of the new UNI marketing campaign. Part of a rotating group of student, faculty, staff and alumni profiles, theirs can be found on the Web at www.uni.edu.

Amy is a freshman marketing major, and works on campus as a student assistant in the UNI marketing department. Andrea, a freshman interior design major, works in the UNI design, family, and consumer science department. Quincy, Ill is their hometown.

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa -- The University of Northern Iowa is featuring Megan Hass, a junior elementary education middle school endorsement major from Davenport, as part of the new UNI marketing campaign. Part of a rotating group of student, faculty, staff and alumni profiles, hers can be found on the Web at www.uni.edu.

Hass has held various officer positions in her residence hall, and now serves as a resident assistant at Rider Hall.

On Dec. 5, 1876, President Ulysses S. Grant delivered his speech of apology to Congress. He claimed mistakes he made while in office were due to inexperience and were 'errors of judgment, not intent.' More than 120 years later, things have changed.

'Grant falls into a rare category of leaders who stood up and admitted their mistakes,' says Gerri Perreault, associate professor and director of leadership studies at the University of Northern Iowa. 'These days, leaders generally do not admit or apologize for errors.'

Perreault says that whether due to arrogance, ego, or fear of political fallout, the public is often subjected to weeks of denials and cries of 'not guilty' when ethical wrong-doings are uncovered. 'In general, the public appreciates honesty,' Perreault explains. 'In general, if someone makes a mistake, it's better to admit it and move on. The press will drop the story much faster.'

Despite the fact that they are supposed to be a festive, joyous time of year, the holidays are often rife with stress and difficulty. 'We tend to romanticize this time of year, and it's hard to meet those expectations,' says David Towle, director of UNI's Counseling Center. Compounding the situation this year will be the return of many servicemen and women, on leave for the holidays. 'Anytime someone comes home from being deployed in the military, there are lots of challenges in the transition,' Towle says. 'Primarily, because everyone has changed and the situation has changed. The people left behind might have had to do some things differently and taken on new responsibilities. The individual who has been deployed is changed by his or her experience. You're not able to pick up where you left off. You have to recognize that things will be different.'

Towle says it's important for families to communicate openly about their feelings, hopes and expectations. 'And don't focus so much on the fantasy of what you hope the reunion will be like. Reassure one another that, even though everyone has gone through changes, there is still appreciation for the sacrifices each has made.'

With the holiday season often comes shopping, baking, entertaining, travel, seldom-seen friends and relatives and, for many, increased stress. Ken Jacobsen, mental health counselor at the University of Northern Iowa, offers some tips to reduce that stress and enjoy the month ahead.

'A good place to start is by remembering the concept that 'less is likely to be more,'' he says. 'Try to avoid feeling that proverbial pressure to be all things and do all things possible. Examine the 'have-tos' and 'must-dos' that make the holidays so stressful and see where you might make changes.'

Jacobsen also says it's important to find some respite alone, or as close to alone as possible. He can offer pointers for how to deal with people you don't like very well but have to tolerate because you're related.

November 25, 2003 - 6:00pm

The University of Northern Iowa's Center for Multicultural Education will host a conversation with the authors of 'Shifting: The Double Lives of Black Women in America,' at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4 in the center's new home on the top floor of Maucker Union.

The authors are Kumea Shorter-Gooden, a licensed psychologist in private practice and a professor at the California School of Professional Psychology of Alliant International University in Los Angeles; and Charisse Jones, a national correspondent for 'USA Today,' former staff writer for the 'New York Times' and the 'Los Angeles Times,' contributing writer for 'Essence' magazine, and former commentator for National Public Radio.

According to Michael Blackwell, UNI director of multicultural education, the book is based on the African American Women's Voices Project initiated by the authors. The project recorded the experiences of more than 300 survey respondents and 70 interviewees. Its premise is that black women are forced, due to bigotry regarding race and gender, to constantly 'shift' between identities. The authors write, 'From one moment to the next, they change their outward behavior, attitude, or tone, shifting 'White,' then shifting 'Black' again, shifting 'corporate,' shifting 'cool.' '